African Drumming Classes in Melbourne

Pricing

Regular Classes - $25 (standard) / $22 (concession)
Casual Classes - $30 (standard) / $25 (concession)
Children's Classes - $20 (parents can join in for free) *

Drum hire - FREE

* You can find details on our kids group drumming lessons here.

FREE TRIAL CLASSES are also available for a limited number of spaces (if you are a new student and have never tried African drumming before).

For more detailed information, request a Free Info Pack or ask about a trial class here:

Benefits of African Djembe Drumming Lessons

• Drumming is intuitive and accessible to anyone – we all have rhythm!

• The various repetitions of the steady beat enhances your capacity to listen.

• Drumming decreases depression, anxiety, stress, preconceived inhibitions and expectations.

• Refines the use of motor skills and brings people together physically, emotionally, and mentally.

• Drumming together benefits physical health.

• Stimulates creativity.

• Boosts morale and creates a sense of being.

African Drumming and Balance

In Mady's home country, Mali, the drums are a daily part of life.  African drumming is a great activity that is well known to reduce stress levels and promote balance and harmony in life. 

After a few lessons, you will come to understand the primary notes or sounds of the drums, which are generally referred to as 'bass', 'tone' and 'slap' sounds.  The slap has a high, sharp sound and the tone has a more 'round' and full sound.  The bass is the lowest.  The combinations are infinitely varied.  It is a perfect lesson in the balances of day to day power and energy.

A Bit About Our Teachers

Mady Keita has been honing his techniques in African drumming for over 30 years.  He has mastered the techniques incorporated into djembe drum and dounoun drum playing through growing up with the many traditional ceremonies of Mali. Mady has secured his position as a patient and dedicated teacher with a wealth of knowledge of authentic Mande rhythms.  Mady loves to teach and share with people the knowledge and culture surrounding his style of drumming, and he is always able to provide the insight needed to adapt a skill in drumming. For Mady, every student is a potential Super Mande Percussionist. His African drumming classes offer a rewarding and invigorating experience that is, like everything at Super Mande Percussion – African Drumming Academy & Performance, very reasonably priced.

Originally from Nungua/Accra, Ghana, Abli Laryea is a Master Drummer and multi-instrumentalist specialising in djembe with a long-held interest in traditional drumming and music. Abli has been playing music for over 20 years, joining local Teshie group ‘Gye Nyame’ while in primary school and an apprentice to his Master Drummer in Ghana. Further developing and sharing his talents through the Wassa African Ensemble, Abli toured to Côte d’Ivoire in West Africa, as well as France and Italy, before settling in Melbourne. Abli is an active and well-known musician, teacher and performer and a much-loved member of the Super Mande Percussion ensemble here in Australia. With his friendly Ghanaian character and energetic teaching style, you’ll love learning with Master Abli.

Receive your Free Info Pack or ask about a trial class:

What Others Are Saying

• “If you are serious about learning the traditional roots of Bambara djembe then Mady Keita is your teacher.  Strap yourself in for a wonderful ride exploring the poetry of a true master that we are so lucky to have in Melbourne.  It's a journey with exponential rewards the longer you stay and listen to his phrasing - well worth the patience.”  (Student  / African drumming teacher)
• “Mady is and will be my teacher here in Melbourne.  A real traditionalist, trying to preserve the Bamana cultural heritage.  An amazing person with such a good heart and an amazing sense of humour… Whoever knows him has only good things to say about him.”  (Student / African drumming teacher)
• “I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to study with Mady in Bamako in 2003/2004.  He is an incredible teacher and I really appreciated his strict devotion to an older style of Malinke and Bamana djembe playing.”  (Student / African drumming teacher)
• “You are a living legend and truly the best djembe player in the whole world.  I am truly fortunate and blessed to have spent time learning with you.” (Student / Musician)
• “Always loving the African drumming classes Mady. The rhythmic invention never fails in its wonderful ideas or the beauty of its execution. A privilege to be there.” (Student)
• “You have been my Teacher for so long I honour you and your wisdom.” (Student)
• “I learnt heaps recommend these classes Mady Keita is a fantastic teacher and makes awesome drums if you need to purchase one. I use the skills he taught me everyday - 5 star academy!!!!”  (Student)
• “A great friendly atmosphere and Mady is so easy to get on with. He has no hesitation in going back to your pace to help you get it right. I have really enjoyed his classes.”  (Student)
• "You cannot find a better place to learn djembe. Djembe master Mady Keita is an incredible teacher, an amazing musician, and a wonderful friend. I took classes with Mady for three months and got years worth of value out of every class. Mady is equally capable of teaching beginners and experts, anyone of any age, and is always accommodating while ensuring you really learn and grow every class. If you are thinking about taking classes here, what are you waiting for? Mady also sells the best authentic djembes in town, does repairs and tunings, and is guaranteed to make you laugh and smile. Peace and love!" (Student)